LUCY McPhail, FOUNDER FETCH BEAUTY - 5QS: A Q&A BETWEEN TWO WOMEN WHO'VE STARTED THEIR OWN BUSINESS

I met Lucy at a beauty gala in London in 2016. My seating had been lost, by chance the event hostess sat me at a large and friendly table. Luckily my neighbor was Lucy McPhail. Lucy was friendly, we began to chat and joke through the evening. As we exchanged pleasantries Lucy shared that she was a buyer at an iconic London retailer and I shared that I’d launched my own collection of makeup remover wipes called Lauren Napier Beauty. Some might have been intimidated by her style and poise - which was nothing short of fabulous. I found her to be quite charming and inspiring. Months later we would connect in New York over lunch. Lucy told me she’d stepped out on her own to start her store in her native Ireland. I was so excited for her and I am thrilled to share her story. Lucy McPhail took the leap and started her own business. I hope her story inspires you as much as she’s inspired me. Enjoy!

1. Looking back on your first job, what skill did you use that you still use today?

My first full time job was working in retail in a department store. Customer service is super important especially in a luxury industry. I would definitely still consider myself customer obsessed and I truly believe that it’s the only way to be successful in our industry.

2. Was there a defining moment that made you start your business?

I decided to start my own business as I had worked really hard on some large projects in the past from the idea to delivery. Michelle Obama said once that success is only meaningful if it feels like your own and that really inspires me in business today. The defining moment was probably giving 110% to projects but not feeling the success as much as I was always just another employee.

3. What was he first step you took to launch your brand?

The first step to launching our brand Fetch Beauty was really building other brand partnerships. We are a luxury beauty platform and would be nothing without our partners. Having a clear vision of what you want to achieve and deciding what type of brand you want to be is important and it should not really change once you decide what your core values are.

4. What is the greatest lesson learned in your first year in business?

The greatest lesson I’ve learned in my first year in business is to just keep going. It can be really hard and resilience is key. You also need to look after yourself and even though its completely consuming make sure to take stock at everything you have achieved (however small it may be).

5. What is your best piece of advice for your fellow Female Founder?

My best piece of advice to other female founders is really to find a network. Actively seek out other people (men and women) who are willing to help you but it works both ways. You have so much value so share it with others. It can be really easy to slip in to a bubble but you need to keep yourself out there and visible to the world.